Richards says if elected, he will serve

Mayor Thomas Richards released a statement late Monday afternoon saying he would continue to serve as mayor if re-elected Tuesday.

The length of service was not immediately clear. The statement came after Richards indicated he would continue during an interview on Bob Lonsberry’s talk show on WHAM 1180 radio.

Richards lost the Democratic Party primary to Lovely Warren in September, but remains on the Independence and Working Families party lines. He has not campaigned for the general election.

“I am surprised to find out that the efforts of the Independence Party are far more extensive than I imagined,” Richards said in the statement. “As I have stated, I have had no contact with that effort. The scope of the Independence Party campaign makes me realize that there is a possibility that I could be the top vote getter. I have said that I would deal with that possibility when and if the time came.

“Mr. Lonsberry and others have been pressing for a clarification," he continued. "At bottom, if I receive more votes than other candidates, I am the mayor. I would never abandon that responsibility and would serve as mayor for as long as it takes to ensure the continued growth and stability of our city.”

Since her primary win Warren has received the endorsement of the Monroe County Democratic Committee, as well as endorsements from Gov. Andrew Cuomo and other political leaders including Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks, a Republican.

Green Party representative Alex White also is campaigning for mayor.

Richards’ complete statement is as follows:

“Today I was called by local radio personality Bob Lonsberry, who asked about my intention should I receive enough votes tomorrow to win the election. I reiterated my belief that, to my mind, not campaigning means you do not win the election.

“I am surprised to find out that the efforts of the Independence Party are far more extensive than I imagined. As I have stated, I have had no contact with that effort. The scope of the Independence Party campaign makes me realize that there is a possibility that I could be the top vote getter. I have said that I would deal with that possibility when and if the time came.

“Mr. Lonsberry and others have been pressing for a clarification. At bottom, if I receive more votes than other candidates, I am the mayor. I would never abandon that responsibility and would serve as mayor for as long as it takes to ensure the continued growth and stability of our city. This is a commitment I that I will stand by.

“It was never my intention to walk away from this responsibility and honor. Rochester is my home, will continue be my home and I will serve the city to the best of my ability.”
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